Your KAST card is built for global spending - whether you’re shopping online in euros, dining in Dubai, or booking a hotel in Brazil. In this article, you’ll learn how currency conversion works on KAST, what fees apply, and how to get the best value when spending in non-USD currencies.
Where Can I Use My KAST Card?
Your KAST Visa card can be used anywhere Visa is accepted, online or in person. This includes transactions in foreign currencies, international merchants, and digital platforms that process in non-USD denominations.
Some local merchants or ATMs may charge their own processing or conversion fees, which are separate from KAST’s FX fee (0.5%–1.75%).
| Usage Scenario | Accepted? | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| Online international stores (e.g., Amazon EU, AliExpress) | Yes |
Payments processed in local currency with a 0.5%–1.75% FX fee applied. |
| In-store purchases abroad (restaurants, hotels, shops) | Yes |
Automatically converted at market rates with a 0.5%–1.75% FX fee. |
| Mobile wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay) | Yes |
Use your KAST card seamlessly for contactless or in-app payments. |
| ATMs displaying the Visa logo | Yes |
Withdrawals supported; local ATM operator fees may apply. |
| Digital platforms (e.g., streaming or travel apps) | Yes |
Works globally on any service that accepts Visa. |
| Merchants without Visa support | No |
Transactions will not go through; Visa network required. |
Note: For security reasons, KAST does not currently support transactions at some unattended payment terminals, such as automated fuel dispensers. If you're purchasing fuel, pay inside the station instead.
How Does Currency Conversion Work?
When you make a purchase in a currency different from your wallet’s base currency, KAST automatically handles the conversion for you. The system uses the live market exchange rate at the moment your transaction is processed, ensuring that you always get a fair and transparent rate.
A foreign exchange (FX) fee between 0.5% and 1.75% is then applied, depending on the country and currency. This is KAST’s only foreign exchange charge. KAST’s fee is fixed, visible, and capped. This means you’ll always know exactly what you’re paying, whether you’re shopping in Euros, Pound, or Reais.
Example: If you buy something in EUR, KAST converts the total at the real-time USD→EUR rate, applies the applicable FX fee (between 0.5% and 1.75% depending on the country), and settles your payment instantly — no surprise fees later.
How Can I Get the Best Conversion Rate?
- Always pay in local currency when prompted (e.g., BRL in Brazil or EUR in France).
- Avoid “Pay in USD” options, as third-party gateways often add hidden 10–16% markups.
- Monitor live exchange rates before big purchases if you want to plan your spend strategically.
Declining “home currency” options keeps your conversion within KAST’s 0.5%–1.75% FX range instead of gateway-driven markups.
How Are Refunds Processed in Different Currencies?
Refunds are always returned in the same currency and to the same source used for the original transaction. If you paid in EUR, your refund will appear in EUR and automatically reconvert to your base currency under the same exchange logic.
This means small differences may occur between the purchase and refund amounts due to market rate changes, not extra fees. KAST never adds additional charges, ensuring refunds remain transparent and accurate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the FX fee apply to all foreign transactions?
Yes. A foreign exchange fee between 0.5% and 1.75% applies to non-USD transactions, depending on the country and currency. This ensures transparent pricing while keeping rates competitive across markets.
Can I withdraw cash abroad using my KAST card?
Yes, you can withdraw cash at most ATMs abroad, but some operators may charge their own fees or set limits. KAST also sets a limit of $250 per withdrawal, up to three times per 24 hours.
Do I earn KAST points or cashback on foreign currency transactions?
Yes, all eligible KAST card purchases earn points and USD cashback, including those made in foreign currencies. The number of points you earn depends on your membership tier and rewards rate.
Does KAST support currency hedging or rate locking?
No, KAST does not currently offer currency hedging or rate locking features. All conversions happen at the live rate when your transaction is confirmed to ensure accuracy.
What if a merchant charges me twice due to currency error?
Contact KAST Concierge right away with your transaction ID and receipts. The team will coordinate with the processor to confirm the duplicate and help you recover the excess charge.
Related to